Ingredients:

1 pound of dried beans

3 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced

1 large sweet onion, chopped coarsely

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1 pound of smoked ham, cut into chunks

6 cups water or broth

Directions:

1. Soak beans in enough water to cover overnight. Or place in a saucepan with 2-inches of water to cover.

2. Bring them to a boil, boil for 3 minutes, then cover and remove from heat. Allow to sit for one hour after boiling (don't lift the lid). Whichever method you use, rinse and drain the beans before placing them in the Slow Cooker.

3. Put the rinsed beans, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, parsley, cloves, ham into the Slow Cooker along with the water or broth. Cover crock, and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until beans are tender and creamy. Skim any excess fat, if necessary, before serving.

Bon Appetit!